Japanese Thistle

Cirsium japonicum

Native to:
China, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Vietnam

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Asteraceae
Genus:
Cirsium
Species:
Cirsium japonicum
USDA Symbol:
CIJA2

Growth Characteristics

Height:
150 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun,Part Shade
Drought Tolerance:
Medium
Bloom Months:
jun,jul,aug,sep
Bloom Colors:
purple, pink

Keystone Species Ranking

Pollen Specialist Bee Keystone:
★★★★☆ Native pollen specialist bee species supported by this genus (NWF)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
bees, butterflies, birds

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
rich, well-drained loamy soil
pH:
5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
good drainage required
Moisture:
consistently moist
Notes:
prefers fertile soils in open areas

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days
Germination Time:
14–30 days
Notes:
Seeds germinate best after cold stratification; sow in spring.

ORGHPS Germination Guide: Sow @ 10C.

Source: Ontario Rock Garden & Hardy Plant Society